Schneider Optics Apo-Symmar 120mm f/5.6

I picked up the APO L version of this lens as a cheap way of trying out the focal length, before spending the big bucks on an 110XL. With an image cirecle of 189mm @f22, I didn't think I'd want to hang onto it for long.

Sometimes we luck out. This time I certainly did. This lens is really special. I find the focal length to be very suitable for the majority of my landscape work, and it is used 70%+ of the time. Not only is it very sharp, but it is also small and light -- small enough to live mounted on my WIsta DX, even when folded away. That saves me time, and space in the camera bag. Finally, I have never run out of coverage with this lens! Admittedly, the Wista DX only has about 35mm of rise, but even so, when compbined with front tilt, I expected to run into problems. So far, none at all.

Now I have it, the desire for a 110XL has gone away. I prefer this small, light, and wonderful alternative. Highly recommended.

Small, light.

More than enough image circle on my Wista DX.

Very sharp, excellent contrast and colour.

Rated image circle seems too little. In use, it is definitely better than Schneider gives it credit for. A fine lens.

In LF: optics from Schneider, Nikkor and Rodenstock.

Not needed.